Perfect Scalloped Potatoes for Thanksgiving Dinner
Scalloped potatoes are a classic, beloved side dish that can transform any meal into something special. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a holiday feast, or a gathering with friends, this creamy, cheesy dish never fails to impress. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of making the best scalloped potatoes recipe, providing you with tips and variations to make it your own.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoon unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 4 garlic cloves, grated
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced ⅛-inch thick
- ½ medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1½ cups grated cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter
- Make the sauce: In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk it for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly add the milk and vegetable broth while continuously whisking. Add grated garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and lightly coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat
- Layer the potatoes: Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the sliced onions, then pour half of the sauce over the potatoes. Add 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat Bake the dish: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, uncover the dish and continue baking for an additional 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.the layers: Add the remaining half of the sliced potatoes, onions, sauce, and then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Rest and serve: Let the scalloped potatoes stand at room temperature for about 20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can make this dish ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole, bake it, and refrigerate it after cooling to room temperature. When ready to serve, reheat at 350°F for about 30 minutes.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère or Parmesan, for a unique flavor.
- Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, but other types of potatoes like russet can also be used.